09/12/2026
âTwas the night before the Sulphur Dell Cup, and all through the league,
Not a player was stirringâno spikes, no fatigue.
The uniforms hung by their gear bags with care,
In hopes that the Sulphur Dell Cup soon would be there.
The Grasshoppers slept sound in their beds,
While visions of quick hops danced round in their heads.
From river to ridges their spirits ran stillâ
For tomorrow they'd leap beneath bright Spring Hill.
The Quicksteps were quiet, their feet taking rest,
For tomorrow theyâd prove they were truly the best.
The Farriers had polished each hammer and shoe,
Preparing their craft for a victory or two.
And Mountain City lay nestled high up in the hills,
Dreaming of base hits and old-timey thrills.
Fleet-footed Lightfoot lads slept light as the breeze,
Their strides full of grace, moving swift with ease.
No stealing tomorrowâjust honest, fair playâ
With Lightfoot precision to guide every fray.
The fiery Phoenix dreamed of rising once more,
Determined to soar like theyâd never before.
The Scouts kept watch with a vigilant eye,
Mapping each play âneath the Tennessee sky.
The Resolutes rested firm, unwavering and stout,
Knowing resolve is what vintageâs about.
The proud Cumberland nine slept near their old trail,
Ready to ride in with a victory tale.
The Maroons dreamed boldly in crimson-toned light,
Preparing to battle with all of their might.
And the Knoxvillesâhistoric, steadfast, and trueâ
Dreamed of the Dell, and the cheers that would brew.
Then out on the field there arose such a clatter,
Each team sprang awake to see what was the matter.
They rushed to the diamond, hearts starting to swellâ
For tomorrow theyâd play for the Sulphur Dell Cup as well.
The bases were chalked with meticulous care,
The outfield lay waiting in cool evening air.
And each club knew, as they gazed on the ground,
That history echoes wherever itâs found.
So rest, Tennessee ballists, your moment is nearâ
The Sulphur Dell Cup calls with its glory and cheer.
And when dawn arrives with its warm southern light,
Let vintage base ball shine proud in its fight.
